Genesis 4:1-6:22
Genesis 6:13-15, "So God said to Noah, ‘I have decided to destroy all living creatures, for they have filled the earth with violence ... Build a large boat out of cypress wood ... 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high.'"
Genesis 6:22, "So Noah did everything exactly as God had commanded him."
Imagine knowing nothing about boats, per se. You've never operated one, and you definitely know nothing about the construction or mechanics involved. Then, someone commissions you to build one. But not just any boat - a massive ark to overcome a great flood. Not only that, but you are to load up your family and two of every animal on earth because the rest of creation is going to perish. Would you be up to the task? Oh, and by the way, it will take you 120 years to complete. Yikes!
This was God's task to Noah, who stepped up to the plate in a massive way. He trusted God for every detail – including meticulous, mind-blowing building plans. Despite the ridicule and scorn he faced, the seemingly insurmountable workload, and the time involved, Noah trusted God and was greatly rewarded for his obedience.
Keep Noah's example in mind today. No matter how small or big the task, trust and obey God. And, remember, when we aim to please God, no one else's opinion matters!
God, Please help me to have Noah's tenacity and willingness to trust and obey. I want a faith like his and the desire to please You regardless of the odds and unfavorable opinions of others. Amen.